Title: Awaiting Shajarian’s Return: Winter Concert and Broader Cultural Initiatives Discussed
Tehran – Mohammad Mehdi Ahmad, a senior official, has provided an update on the anticipated concert by renowned vocalist Homayoun Shajarian, confirming that logistical planning is underway pending the artist’s return to the country.
In a press briefing that also covered several national cultural projects, Ahmad emphasized the administration’s readiness to facilitate the event, noting that weather conditions would be a key factor for a potential winter performance.
Planning for a Landmark Performance
Addressing reporters, Ahmad stated, “Mr. Shajarian is currently traveling abroad. Upon his return, we will meet with him, and if he is prepared, we are ready to support his performance.” He added that the possibility of holding the concert in an open-air venue, such as the exterior grounds of Tehran’s City Theater, is being considered but is contingent on favorable weather.
Highlighting the mutual respect between the artist and the state, Ahmad expressed his optimism for the event, noting, “Mr. Shajarian is a respected individual; he is fond of the Iranian people and desires to work for them. We will speak with him upon his return, and I hope conditions will be favorable.”
A Commitment to National Cultural Development
The official’s comments extended beyond the concert to outline a broader vision for cultural equity and institutional support across Iran.
Regional Music Festival: Ahmad confirmed that the 18th edition of the Regional Music Festival, postponed from last year, will be held this year. He addressed the logistical challenge of hosting it, as both Kerman and Bandar Abbas have expressed strong interest. “We are currently reviewing whether the festival can be held in two segments to meet the expectations of artists in both provinces,” he explained, underscoring a commitment to fair regional representation.
Decentralizing the Arts: A significant part of the discussion focused on supporting artistic talent outside the capital. Ahmad announced that workshops for a national theater festival have been established in all provincial towns. “We believe in justice, which means paying attention to the capacities of all towns,” he stated. “We believe that provincial citizens have high talents, and one reason for their migration to Tehran is a lack of attention. By supporting them, we can encourage reverse migration, allowing them to pursue their artistic work in their own provinces. For us, there is no distinction between Tehran and other towns; we believe Iran is not just Tehran.”
Upholding Institutional Standards: Ahmad also defended the selection process for the Fajr Theater Festival’s secretary, emphasizing that the chosen candidate possesses a strong combination of academic knowledge in theater and proven executive management skills. He reiterated a commitment to strengthening national cultural institutions, specifically mentioning plans to refurbish the iconic City Theater to uphold its status as a “brand of the capital.” “Working at the City Theater should become part of an artist’s esteemed resume,” Ahmad said, “not a stage for just any performance.”
The briefing concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s policy to provide comprehensive financial and moral support to all artistic fields, ensuring that expert artists are engaged, recognized, and play a visible role in the nation’s cultural landscape.